The Green-Cheeked Conure
The Green-cheeked conure is a favourite among bird owners due to its vibrant colours, small size, friendly temperament, and relatively low noise level. As one of the smallest conure species, it is highly sought after as a pet.
Native Region / Natural Habitat
Green-cheeked conures are native to Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay, where they inhabit forests and woodlands. In the wild, they roost in tree cavities high in the canopy. These birds do not naturally sleep on perches, so they require a sleeping box for security and safety.
**Care & Feeding**
Green-cheeked conures are highly affectionate and form strong bonds with their owners. They need ample time outside their cage to thrive. Generally, they get along well with other conures of similar size but may be aggressive towards smaller birds. Due to their fearless nature, they can potentially injure larger birds or be injured themselves if not monitored closely. With proper care, a Green-cheeked conure can live for 25 years or more.
Pellets that contain soy should be avoided, as nearly all brands except one or two do. Soy contains a compound that mimics the hormone estrogen, which disrupts the endocrine system and can lead to various hormone-related issues. In our experience, we feed a natural diet daily, and our birds have no hormone problems.
Consider researching soy's known effects on birds and mammals; surprisingly, reputable pellet manufacturers include it in their products. The primary reason seems to be cost, and it is cheap.
In vitro studies suggest that isoflavones in soy inhibit the synthesis of oestradiol and other steroid hormones. These compounds have been linked to reproductive issues, infertility, thyroid problems, and liver disease in various animal species, including mice, cheetahs, quail, pigs, rats, sturgeon, and sheep. Additionally, soy foods can block calcium absorption and cause vitamin D deficiencies, among other issues.
As a caregiver to many conures and other birds, I do not feed them any commercial avian pellets. Instead, our birds receive a varied natural diet, which includes sprouted beans (such as mung, lentil, and adzuki), corn, wheat, barley, oats, sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and more. We also provide fresh or frozen vegetables like carrots, peas, corn, beetroots, various greens, and fruits like apples. Our birds receive high-quality seed mixes throughout the year; none have ever been exposed to pellets. They remain healthy and thrive on this diet.
Personality & behaviour
Green-cheeked conures are playful and known for their amusing antics. They enjoy hanging upside down and climbing along the cage bars, eagerly waiting for their owners to engage with them. These birds can be mischievous, as they are naturally a colony bird, Generally, they get along well with other conures of similar size but may be aggressive towards smaller birds. Due to their fearless nature, they can potentially injure larger birds or be injured themselves if not monitored closely. they will relish a cage mate of its own kind for company and communication, so it's important to supervise them at all times.
**Speech & Sound**
Owners appreciate Green-cheeked conures for their relatively quiet nature compared to other conures. They are not as loud or frequent in their calls, although they do make some noise. Some Green-cheeked conures can learn to talk and pick up a few words, but they are not typically known for their vocal abilities.
Overall, Green-cheeked conures are among the most commonly available conure species as pets. A hand-raised, well-socialized Green-cheeked conure can make an excellent family companion.
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